WALKING THE DOG

Let’s begin by saying that we’re talking about REAL dogs. Not the Duncan Yo-Yo “walking the dog” Yo-Yo trick – which come to think about it, probably most of you aren’t aware of the 1960’s Yo-Yo craze. If you don’t know – Google Duncan Yo-Yo. It’s a fun toy.

Anyway, as I said I’m talking about walking a real dog. All dogs. All breeds. Big dogs. Medium dogs. Small dogs. All ages. All dogs benefit from being walked. Not just to do their “business”, but for their physical and mental health. The degree of how much walking may depend on your dog’s health status, so always consult your dog’s veterinarian about walking your dog if you’re concerned about physical exertion ie: hip dysplasia, arthritic problems, and brachial/breathing conditions.

I know so many, too many, dog owners who think that having their dogs wander around in their backyard or going to a dog park is all the exercise that they need. That cannot be more wrong. Playing and physical exercising can’t be more different. Like you, when playing in your backyard you stop when you want to stop. When you exercise, say jogging or walking, you have to push yourself….at the very least….to be able to get back home. The very idea of exercise is to push yourself so that you continue to get stronger and build up more and more endurance so you can do more and feel better. Exercise is good for weight management, joint health, cardiac & respiratory health, and digestion. And YES, not only does the dog benefit from walks, so do the people who walk the dog. Take it from me, as someone who has walked dogs for miles and miles, I’m in great shape, physically fit and healthy all in large part because of my walking dogs for so many years. And probably in a lot better shape than many people I know who go to the gym.

Then there is the mental and socialization health that dogs get from being walked. Walking a dog allows your dog to be exposed to explore new sights, smells and sound. It’s the mental stimulation a dog can’t get from the same old backyard and being confined in your home all day long. That’s pretty boring. Think of the stir craziness you felt during the COVID 19 quarantine. You were dying to get out of the house and see other people. Now imagine how a dog feels who’s live is relegated to the confines of the house and the backyard – day after day – COVID or not. Even dog parks and doggie day care cannot replace the physical and mental benefits of going on routine walks. There is always something new & different to experience on a walk – “oooo a squirrel”.

And lastly, socialization. No not to just the other dogs and people your dog might encounter during a walk, but the bonding between you and your dog. Walking your dog on a leash, having the dogs NOT take the lead, but walk at your side OR just a step behind you, lets your dog know that YOU are in charge. You are their protector and there is no reason to worry about anything. Not about other dogs. Not about loud noises. Not about strangers. YOU have their back. You are physically connected & attached to them with a leash. The last time they were “connected” as strongly was when your dog was umbilically connected to their MOM - their ultimate protector, teacher and roll model. Now YOU are their MOM. Don’t let this “walking the dog” teaching and bonding time pass you by. Regular dog walking creates better dog to owner loyalty. Better dog behavior. A less stressed dog. A healthier & happier dog.

So, get out there and go walk your dog…..you & your dog will be happier & healthier.

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WALKING THE DOG

Two by Four New York